Hoka Running Shoes Review: Best Options from This Innovative Brand

Since Hoka One One began in 2009, it has continued to be one of the world’s most innovative and effective running shoe manufacturers. Hoka was started by two French runners who were looking to create the ultimate running experience. And thanks to their passion, knowledge, and creativity, Hoka has become a top brand that is loved worldwide.

Millions of runners (both beginners and professionals) use Hoka running shoes every day, making it a trusted brand. These shoes are known for their smooth rides and oversize midsoles, making them the best for a wide range of weather and terrains.

But with the many Hoka running shoes in the market, choosing the right one can be quite tricky. And that is because these shoes come packed with everything you need for a great run. So, we have prepared this Hoka running shoes review to help you select the best option.

Our Top Hoka Running Shoes Are…

 

1. Hoka Clifton 7 Running Shoes — Best Hoka Running Shoes

Clifton 7 is the best Hoka running shoe for everyday training that is loved by both experienced and novice runners. This footwear combines its little weight with big cushions to deliver a premium running experience. Hoka Clifton is the best-selling shoe line. That is because of its versatility and unique design, and Clifton 7 is no exception. Clifton 7 is lightweight footwear with great comfort and maximum shock absorption.

Clifton 7 comes with a unique upper that doesn’t stray away from its predecessor’s feel and looks. However, it does come with numerous updates that guarantee a comfortable fit. This shoe comes with lightweight, open-engineered upper mesh. Its mesh is smooth and airy, and its weave is open enough to allow both light and air to pass through.

This shoe’s tongue is attached to the thin mesh strap inside it to prevent it from moving around when jogging. The flare shape of this footwear keeps the collar off your Achilles; therefore, you will never have to worry about chafing or rubbing.

While Hoka upgraded this shoe’s upper, they didn’t mess with its midsole. Clifton 7 uses compression-molded EVA midsoles to cushion your ride. The EVA used with this pair is very soft, and many users have reported that it feels bouncy and cushy underfoot. But, it’s not as soft as Hoka Bondi 7, and some users have complained that its thick upper that can cause overheating.

Overall Rating – 4.0 out of 5

Conclusion

Hoka didn’t make many changes with their seventh version of the Clifton line. But, it does come with a few tweaks that have improved this pair’s feel and fit.

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2. Hoka Women’s Bondi 6 Running Shoes

Hoka Bondi is the king of cushioning in the running shoe sector, and its sixth version is one of the most cushioned shoes in the market. Bondi loyalists who complained that their fifth version was too firm will not be disappointed with Bondi 6. Unlike its predecessor, Bondi 6 comes with updated cushioning for a softer ride. It also has a new upper, which uses a combination of lycra and engineered mesh.

Bondi 6 comes with meta-rocker geometry and a full EVA midsole. This shoe offers a smooth ride while the rockered geometry makes up for less bouncy and soft cushioning. Bondi 6 features an EVA Marshmallow midsole that provides fantastic comfort and shock absorption.

This footwear feels very stable thanks to its wide base. It has a 4mm low heel drop that is common among race day footwear with minimalistic soles. This pair is gentle on your calf muscles, thanks to its soft cushioning.

Bondi 6’s upper comes with a thin mesh with several holes spread all over the forefoot and instep. This upper is engineered to keep your feet dry by allowing air to get in and out of the footwear. This unique upper is also designed to wick away the sweat when running.

This shoe upper comes with an internal heel counter that hugs your Achilles tendon and heel when running. However, some Hoka loyalists have complained about its durability. Plus, it has been made using less breathable material.

Overall Rating – 4.5 out of 5

Conclusion

This shoe is designed to keep your feet dry. Many Hoka women’s running shoes reviews have confirmed that Bondi 6 is the most comfortable option available.

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3. Hoka Arahi 4 Running Shoes

Arahi 4 is one of the world’s lightest stability running footwear. It is the best option for individuals with over-pronation issues who require extra stability and support. With this footwear, you will be guaranteed the comfortable Hoka feeling in a stable package.

Like all stability shoes, this pair comes with a durable and firmer piece of foam in the arch region. However, Arahi 4 extends the foam around the back. The firm foam runs from the lateral side around the heel and then to the medial side. Arahi 4 comes with an updated upper that is mainly focused on increasing comfort and durability.

This pair has a simple upper that is made using lightweight mesh material, which adds extra support. Hoka added a rubber-overlay from the center all around the heels to provide additional stability. The rubber-overlay keeps your foot in place while you are jogging. The only thing to watch out for is that it may not be as durable as you’d like.

Overall Rating – 4.4 out of 5

Conclusion

Hoka Arahi 4 is the lightest stability pair that provides the needed support. Thanks to Hoka’s J-frame technology, this is the best pair for individuals with over-pronation issues.

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4. Hoka Speedgoat 4 Running Shoes

Speedgoat 4 is an ultra-cushioned running shoe designed to keep you comfortable as you tackle over 100 miles. This pair’s design was based on Karl Meltzer’s input and vision. Unlike its predecessor, Speedgoat 4 has improved fit and better traction. Speedgoat 4 also comes with a wider toe box to accommodate your toes.

Speedgoat 4 features a Vibram MegaGrip outsole coupled with rubber lugs to provide the needed traction. It comes with a full-length EVA midsole that offers the needed stability and shock absorption. Speedgoat 4 has a breathable upper mesh with synthetic overlays. You will never have to worry about blisters. And to make sure you have an abrasion-free experience, it has a breathable textile lining.

Overall Rating – 4.4 out of 5

Conclusion

Hoka Speedgoat 4 has everything you will ever need in a trail running footwear. Its thick sole offers plenty of cushioning against roots and jagged rocks. And the Vibram MegaGrip outsole and deep lugs provide the needed traction on stretchy trails.

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5. Hoka Challenger ATR 5 Running Shoes

The latest version of the Hoka challenger doesn’t come with numerous huge changes from its predecessor. The main difference between ATR 5 and ATR 4 is the small changes in the outsole. The lovers of ATR 4 can easily adapt to Hoka’s fifth version of the challenger.

While it’s slightly more costly than most trail shoes, ATR 5 is a versatile shoe that can be used on both trails and roads. The ATR 5 is ideal for neutral pronators who don’t require a lot of support.

Width option is quite rare in trail footwear, but ATR 5 is available in wide sizes for both women and men. Therefore, people with wide feet can jog comfortably in this pair. ATR 5 can handle a wide range of terrains while providing the lightweight and cushioning the challenger is known for.

This pair comes with a wide toe box reinforced with thermoplastic polyurethane. ATR 5 has a thick EVA-foam midsole with huge footprints that are designed to offer a smooth ride. The outsoles have several 4mm lugs that can help you tackle more technical terrains.

ATR 5 has a unique upper that features a dual-layer mesh that is designed to provide breathability, support, and durability. So you will never have to worry about blisters. One thing though is that the ATR 5’s sole isn’t toothy enough to handle deep muddy terrain.

Overall Rating – 4.6 out of 5

Conclusion

Hoka Challenger ATR 5 is comfortable footwear that can handle a wide range of terrains. ATR 5 is ideal for people with over-pronation issues and wide feet.

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6. Hoka Rincon 6 Men Running Shoes

Hoka has produced numerous over-the-top cushioned shoes across several lines. And they have been upgrading their shoes over the years. However, the promise of over-the-top cushioning is what has drawn people to them over the years. And that is what they have done with their Rincon line.

Even though it is one of Hoka’s cheapest footwear, this shoe has everything you would find in a high-end option. Rincon comes with a unique upper that is made from a soft single-layer of mesh. The mesh used with this pair is very light and breathable. Plus, the tongue is too slim and as breathable as the other parts of the upper.

To keep its weight low, Hoka opted against using a full layer of rubber for the outsole. Instead, they placed the rubber in specific impact regions. This pair features a full-compression EVA midsole that provides the highest level of cushioning. The downside is that it does feel slightly tight on wide feet.

Overall Rating – 4.5 out of 5

Conclusion

Rincon 6 is a great pair that is loved by many runners. The over-the-top cushioning and lightweight can make long-distance running fun.

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About Hoka One One

Hoka One One is a footwear brand based in Goleta, California, that has been manufacturing shoes for over a decade. Hoka was founded in 2009 when the minimalist shoe trend was at its peak. And because of (or despite) the trend, Hoka started manufacturing maximalist footwear that cushioned and cradled our feet.

Currently, Hoka is known for producing both maximum cushioning and low-profile footwear. All Hoka shoes have a unique outsole and midsole geometry design and low cushion-to-weight ratio. Their unique outsole and midsole geometry promotes stability and efficient stride and stability.

History of Hoka One One

Hoka was started by former Salomon employees (Diard Jean-Luc and Mermoud Nicolas) in 2009. Daird and Mermoud wanted to make a pair that would allow them to jog downhill faster. So, they came up with an oversized and well-cushioned outsole.

Currently, Hoka has some lightweight shoes that have retained the company’s signature cushioning. Hoka has also introduced even lighter racing and training shoes. Deckers Brands, the parent firm for Teva and UGG, purchased Hoka in 2013.

Hoka Technologies That Have Made Them Stand Out

J-Frame Technology

J-frame is an excellent technique that offers the needed support without using rigid or heavy materials. J-frame uses firm density foam on the medial side, extending to the front.

Meta-Rocker

The Meta-Rocker Geometry complements your normal gait while driving you forward. It provides a smooth roll from heel-to-toe.

Active Footframe

This feature functions as a racecar’s bucket seat. This feature beds your foot and heel deep into its midsole while guiding your foot. It provides integrated stability in footwear.

Warranties by Hoka

Hoka shoes come with a 30-day product exchange or cash back guarantee. So, you can use Hoka products for about 30-days, and if you are not satisfied, the company will either offer product exchange or give you your cashback.

Final Thoughts

Hoka started by producing maximalist over-cushioned shoes in 2009. And they have retained their over-the-top cushioning to date. Our Hoka running shoes review has brought out the very best this company has to offer. And you can rely on Hoka shoes for better cushioning and better performance.

These Hoka shoes use the very best technologies from Hoka to address many feet issues, including overpronation. So, whether you need a pair for running on trails or pavements, Hoka has numerous options that can enhance your workout.

From our research, we have concluded that the Clifton 7 is the best Hoka running shoe as it delivers a premium running experience. It is a lightweight shoe that offers maximum shock absorption and comfort.